Split is easy to discover on a day trip, with its central cruise port making it a perfect cruise destination. Situated on the eastern shores of the Adriatic in Croatia, it also makes an ideal location for a weekend or a base to discover the beautiful area and surrounding islands. The city’s historic centre is within the walls of the Diocletian’s Palace, as well as being a short walk from the cruise port. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world.
In addition to the Diocletian’s Palace, Split has many other historic buildings and monuments. These also include the Cathedral of St. Domnius, the Bell Tower, and the Peristyle, which are all located within the palace walls. The Riva promenade is a popular spot as it offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby islands.
Split Cruise Port Location
The cruise port of Split is located around a 10 minute walk form the Golden Gate entrance of the Diocletian’s palace. It is an easy walk and this is the simplest and cheapest way to reach the city centre. We spent the morning in the Diocletian’s Palace, returned to the cruise ship for lunch and then explored the promenade and beyond in the afternoon.
As you leave the cruise port area there are plenty of taxi’s and excursion providers, to travel further afield. To visit Krka falls it is best to book prior to your visit. However, Split itself has plenty to offer for and enjoyable day trip.
The Golden Gate and Gregory of Nin
On leaving the cruise port the best starting point for exploring the city is the Golden Gate. Located on the north wall, it is the main of the four gates of the Diocletian’s Palace.
Here you will also find the statue of Gregory of Nin. He was a bishop who defied the Pope by introducing the Croatian language into his services. This was revolutionary and had a big impact on the culture of Croatia and the development of the country. It is believed that rubbing the big toe of the statue will bring you luck.
Continue through the gate into the Diocletian’s Palace and on to visit ‘peristyle’ central square.
Split Central Square
The Peristyle of Diocletian’s Palace is a rectangular courtyard surrounded by a peristyle of columns and arches. The Peristyle is one of the most important parts of Diocletian’s Palace. It was originally used as a ceremonial space for the emperor and his court. Today, it is obviously popular tourist destination. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, which was originally built as a mausoleum for Diocletian.
You can buy a combined ticket to visit the various buildings of the Cathedral. More information can be found here. We visited the Bell tower only and climbed around 200 steep steps to see the fabulous views.
In the square you will also find the Vestibule which is a famous part of Diocletian’s Palace, being a grand entrance hall located at the southern entrance of the complex.
The Vestibule is a rectangular space with a domed ceiling that was originally used for imperial audiences and official ceremonies. Today, as well as being a popular tourist attraction, it is used as a venue for concerts.
Sliver Gate and Riva Promenade
Head towards the Silver Gate (the east gate), walk through and into the Green Market; the largest open air fruit and vegetable market in Croatia. Continue on along Split’s main Riva Promenade until you come to the Bronze Gate
The Bronze Gate
The Bronze Gate (also known as the North Gate) is another of four original entrances to the Diocletian’s Palace. Despite its name, the gate is not made of bronze and is the most unassuming of the gates. It is more door like in appearance and connects the Promenade via some steps to the Palace cellars. To explore the Palace’s west cellars there is an entrance fee, but it is free to walk through the cellars main corridor. Here you will find a small market selling souvenirs, which leads you back through to Peristyle Square.
Jupiter’s Temple and Let me Pass Street
Opposite the Cathedral on the left is a narrow street. Walk down this street around 50 metres and you will find the Temple of Jupiter with the headless Sphinx outside. The sphynx is a human head on a lions body and was brought from Egypt 3500 years ago. The temple was built at the time of the construction of the city and is dedicated to the ancient Roman god Jupiter.
Let me Pass Street is a very short and narrow passage claiming to be the narrowest street in the world. It must also compete for the shortest as well!
Split Water front and Marjan Hill Viewpoint
Next, head towards the waterfront and turn right to enjoy the beautiful views along the Promenade, until you reach the Fisherman’s Port. Turn right here and walk up Solurat Ul. On the right there is a sign to Marjanske Scale. This is the start of the 300 steps to climb to the Marjan Hill viewpoint. From here you are treated to amazing views of Split and its coastline. If you have time then it is possible to walk on further up the hill.
Leave the view point and walk past the steps you came up. On the right hand side are another set of steps. These lead you back down to the Fisherman’s Port and the main waterfront.
Back to the Golden Gate
Head back along waterfront towards town and turn left into Republic Square. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and landmarks, inclding the National Theatre, the City Hall, and the statue of Marko Marulić. Just over midway down the square, on the right take the path leading through to the fish market. You are now back in the centre of Split. From here take Marontovi Ul, to see the unusual funnel and cup fountain where water comes from the hand in the wall into the funnel. Finally turn right and follow the road back up to the Golden Gate where you started.
Split is an excellent location for a daytrip or longer with easy access to the centre from the cruise port.
Extend your trip to Split by visiting beautiful natural areas including Marjan Forest Park, the Krka Waterfalls as well as the nearby islands of Brač, Hvar, and Vis. These islands are perfect for hiking, swimming, and sailing. Split a great destination for anyone who loves the outdoors!
If you require any further information on cruise excursion ideas then please contact us.